Pakistani soldiers deploy in Karachi, Pakistan. The army has always been important in Pakistani politics, but civilian leaders are gaining political power of their own to reinforce their burgeoning democratic ideals. The military's role in governance will have to change if it wishes to remain relevant.
(ASIF HASSAN/AFP/Getty Images)
The military has always played a prominent role in the politics of Pakistan. For nearly 70 years, the army has defined the country's national security priorities, sometimes from the seat of government itself, and many commanders have been placed in prominent economic and political positions. However, civilian leaders such as the prime minister are gaining political power of their own lately, using the military to reinforce their burgeoning democratic ideals. This satisfies the military's desire for influence while also lowering the likelihood of a coup, but the military will nonetheless try to maintain its relevance in the economy and the government, all while continuing its historical role as protector of the country....
